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enLouisville Earns National Ranking for Creating Jobshttp://louisvilleky.gov/
The Louisville area has earned a Top 10 ranking for economic development from Site Selection Magazine thanks to dozens of new business development projects announced in 2014, representing more than 5,000 new jobs and $1 billion in new investment Kindred&#039;s expansion and 500 new jobs downtown. Tuesday, March 3, 2015 - 15:10City, Louisville Forward, Mayor Greg FischerLouisville Earns National Ranking for Creating Jobshttp://louisvilleky.gov/
The Louisville area has earned a Top 10 ranking for economic development from Site Selection Magazine thanks to dozens of new business development projects announced in 2014, representing more than 5,000 new jobs and $1 billion in new investment Kindred&#039;s expansion and 500 new jobs downtown. Tuesday, March 3, 2015 - 15:10City, Louisville Forward, Mayor Greg FischerLouisville Earns National Ranking for Creating Jobshttp://louisvilleky.gov/
The Louisville area has earned a Top 10 ranking for economic development from Site Selection Magazine thanks to dozens of new business development projects announced in 2014, representing more than 5,000 new jobs and $1 billion in new investment Kindred&#039;s expansion and 500 new jobs downtown. Tuesday, March 3, 2015 - 15:10City, Louisville Forward, Mayor Greg FischerCriminal Justice Commission Meeting April 16, 2015http://louisvilleky.gov/Criminal%20Justice%20Commission%20Board
Tuesday, March 3, 2015 - 13:03Criminal Justice CommissionCriminal Justice Commission BoardJustice For All: Louisville&#039;s Criminal Justice Systemhttp://louisvilleky.gov/Justice%20For%20All%3A%20Louisville%26amp%3B%23039%3Bs%20Criminal%20Justice%20System
Tuesday, March 3, 2015 - 11:20Criminal Justice CommissionJustice For All: Louisville&amp;#039;s Criminal Justice SystemJustice For All: Louisville&#039;s Criminal Justice Systemhttp://louisvilleky.gov/
In response to the need for increased public education about the criminal justice system, the Criminal Justice Commission facilitated an awareness initiative known as “Justice for All: Louisville’s Criminal Justice System”. The goal is to provide a systemic look at the criminal justice system and assist the community in understanding how the system works, the agencies involved, and the responsibilities of each agency.
LAW ENFORCEMENT
COURTS
Tuesday, March 3, 2015 - 11:24Criminal Justice CommissionLouisville Earns National Ranking for Job Creation Momentumhttp://louisvilleky.gov/
The Louisville metro area has earned a Top 10 ranking for economic development and job creation from a leading national publication thanks to a slate of business investments and company expansions and locations in 2014.
Louisville placed ninth in Site Selection Magazine’s ranking of top tier metro areas with population over one million – that was up seven spots from the year before, the largest jump by any metro area in the top ten.
“This ranking is further evidence that we have a solid game plan for job creation and it’s producing strong results,” Mayor Greg Fischer said. “We still have much work to do, especially in the area of wage growth, but clearly businesses of all kinds are recognizing our strategic advantages and strong quality of life.”
In 2014, Louisville secured 31 business development projects, which signified more than 5,000 new jobs and $1 billion in investment.
The strong local growth was part of a record year for the state as Site Selection also awarded Kentucky its Governor’s Cup as the top state for new and expanded industry activity.
Fischer noted that many of the business investments announced last year were in healthcare. Louisville is the world leader in lifelong wellness and aging care, with more than 18,000 professionals producing over $48 billion in revenue. The city also is home to the nation’s largest collection of headquarters in nursing home, rehabilitation, assisted living and home health administration.
Significant projects announced in Louisville last year included:
Kindred, plans to create 500 new full-time jobs and construct a new operations center in Theatre Square;
Teleperformance, plans to invest $13 million and create 750 new jobs;
Computershare, plans a new facility and 250 new jobs;
Confluent Health, moving its national headquarters to Louisville, creating 25 new jobs;
Aperture Credentialing, additional investment and 30 new jobs;
Edumedics LLC, expanding its existing corporate headquarters, creating 17 new jobs.
Last year, Kentucky announced more than 350 new location and expansion projects, which are projected to create nearly 15,000 jobs and more than $3.7 billion in new investment. That is the most business investment in Kentucky since the state started recording investment data nearly 30 years ago.
The record business success led Site Selection to award the Commonwealth its Governor’s Cup, which it has presented since 1978 to the state with the most business activity.
“Winning the prestigious Governor’s Cup is a true honor,” said Gov. Steve Beshear. “Kentucky works extremely hard to build and maintain relationships with our companies, and we go the extra mile to support their plans for growth. The Governor’s Cup speaks to the dedication of everyone in this state who’s working to build Kentucky’s economy, grow jobs and create success for our industries, our communities and all Kentuckians.”
The ranking by Site Selection, an Atlanta-based publication, is based on a state’s total number of qualified projects as tracked by Conway Data Inc.’s New Plant database. Qualified projects include those that meet at least one of three criteria:
Involve a capital investment of at least $1 million,
Create 50 or more jobs, or
Add at least 20,000 square feet of new floor space.
“Not only did Kentucky win the Governor’s Cup for the most new projects per capita, but it also placed sixth in the ranking of states with the most total qualifying projects,” said Mark Arend, Site Selection’s editor in chief. “This demonstrates to our readership that the Commonwealth is competing quite effectively with states of all sizes for capital investment.”
The article and rankings can be viewed in their entirety at www.siteselection.com.
Tuesday, March 3, 2015 - 10:47City, Economic Development, Louisville Forward, Mayor Greg FischerLouisville Earns National Ranking for Job Creation Momentumhttp://louisvilleky.gov/
The Louisville metro area has earned a Top 10 ranking for economic development and job creation from a leading national publication thanks to a slate of business investments and company expansions and locations in 2014.
Louisville placed ninth in Site Selection Magazine’s ranking of top tier metro areas with population over one million – that was up seven spots from the year before, the largest jump by any metro area in the top ten.
“This ranking is further evidence that we have a solid game plan for job creation and it’s producing strong results,” Mayor Greg Fischer said. “We still have much work to do, especially in the area of wage growth, but clearly businesses of all kinds are recognizing our strategic advantages and strong quality of life.”
In 2014, Louisville secured 31 business development projects, which signified more than 5,000 new jobs and $1 billion in investment.
The strong local growth was part of a record year for the state as Site Selection also awarded Kentucky its Governor’s Cup as the top state for new and expanded industry activity.
Fischer noted that many of the business investments announced last year were in healthcare. Louisville is the world leader in lifelong wellness and aging care, with more than 18,000 professionals producing over $48 billion in revenue. The city also is home to the nation’s largest collection of headquarters in nursing home, rehabilitation, assisted living and home health administration.
Significant projects announced in Louisville last year included:
Kindred, plans to create 500 new full-time jobs and construct a new operations center in Theatre Square;
Teleperformance, plans to invest $13 million and create 750 new jobs;
Computershare, plans a new facility and 250 new jobs;
Confluent Health, moving its national headquarters to Louisville, creating 25 new jobs;
Aperture Credentialing, additional investment and 30 new jobs;
Edumedics LLC, expanding its existing corporate headquarters, creating 17 new jobs.
Last year, Kentucky announced more than 350 new location and expansion projects, which are projected to create nearly 15,000 jobs and more than $3.7 billion in new investment. That is the most business investment in Kentucky since the state started recording investment data nearly 30 years ago.
The record business success led Site Selection to award the Commonwealth its Governor’s Cup, which it has presented since 1978 to the state with the most business activity.
“Winning the prestigious Governor’s Cup is a true honor,” said Gov. Steve Beshear. “Kentucky works extremely hard to build and maintain relationships with our companies, and we go the extra mile to support their plans for growth. The Governor’s Cup speaks to the dedication of everyone in this state who’s working to build Kentucky’s economy, grow jobs and create success for our industries, our communities and all Kentuckians.”
The ranking by Site Selection, an Atlanta-based publication, is based on a state’s total number of qualified projects as tracked by Conway Data Inc.’s New Plant database. Qualified projects include those that meet at least one of three criteria:
Involve a capital investment of at least $1 million,
Create 50 or more jobs, or
Add at least 20,000 square feet of new floor space.
“Not only did Kentucky win the Governor’s Cup for the most new projects per capita, but it also placed sixth in the ranking of states with the most total qualifying projects,” said Mark Arend, Site Selection’s editor in chief. “This demonstrates to our readership that the Commonwealth is competing quite effectively with states of all sizes for capital investment.”
The article and rankings can be viewed in their entirety at www.siteselection.com.
Tuesday, March 3, 2015 - 10:47City, Economic Development, Louisville Forward, Mayor Greg FischerLouisville Earns National Ranking for Job Creation Momentumhttp://louisvilleky.gov/
The Louisville metro area has earned a Top 10 ranking for economic development and job creation from a leading national publication thanks to a slate of business investments and company expansions and locations in 2014.
Louisville placed ninth in Site Selection Magazine’s ranking of top tier metro areas with population over one million – that was up seven spots from the year before, the largest jump by any metro area in the top ten.
“This ranking is further evidence that we have a solid game plan for job creation and it’s producing strong results,” Mayor Greg Fischer said. “We still have much work to do, especially in the area of wage growth, but clearly businesses of all kinds are recognizing our strategic advantages and strong quality of life.”
In 2014, Louisville secured 31 business development projects, which signified more than 5,000 new jobs and $1 billion in investment.
The strong local growth was part of a record year for the state as Site Selection also awarded Kentucky its Governor’s Cup as the top state for new and expanded industry activity.
Fischer noted that many of the business investments announced last year were in healthcare. Louisville is the world leader in lifelong wellness and aging care, with more than 18,000 professionals producing over $48 billion in revenue. The city also is home to the nation’s largest collection of headquarters in nursing home, rehabilitation, assisted living and home health administration.
Significant projects announced in Louisville last year included:
Kindred, plans to create 500 new full-time jobs and construct a new operations center in Theatre Square;
Teleperformance, plans to invest $13 million and create 750 new jobs;
Computershare, plans a new facility and 250 new jobs;
Confluent Health, moving its national headquarters to Louisville, creating 25 new jobs;
Aperture Credentialing, additional investment and 30 new jobs;
Edumedics LLC, expanding its existing corporate headquarters, creating 17 new jobs.
Last year, Kentucky announced more than 350 new location and expansion projects, which are projected to create nearly 15,000 jobs and more than $3.7 billion in new investment. That is the most business investment in Kentucky since the state started recording investment data nearly 30 years ago.
The record business success led Site Selection to award the Commonwealth its Governor’s Cup, which it has presented since 1978 to the state with the most business activity.
“Winning the prestigious Governor’s Cup is a true honor,” said Gov. Steve Beshear. “Kentucky works extremely hard to build and maintain relationships with our companies, and we go the extra mile to support their plans for growth. The Governor’s Cup speaks to the dedication of everyone in this state who’s working to build Kentucky’s economy, grow jobs and create success for our industries, our communities and all Kentuckians.”
The ranking by Site Selection, an Atlanta-based publication, is based on a state’s total number of qualified projects as tracked by Conway Data Inc.’s New Plant database. Qualified projects include those that meet at least one of three criteria:
Involve a capital investment of at least $1 million,
Create 50 or more jobs, or
Add at least 20,000 square feet of new floor space.
“Not only did Kentucky win the Governor’s Cup for the most new projects per capita, but it also placed sixth in the ranking of states with the most total qualifying projects,” said Mark Arend, Site Selection’s editor in chief. “This demonstrates to our readership that the Commonwealth is competing quite effectively with states of all sizes for capital investment.”
The article and rankings can be viewed in their entirety at www.siteselection.com.
Tuesday, March 3, 2015 - 10:47City, Economic Development, Louisville Forward, Mayor Greg FischerLouisville Earns National Ranking for Job Creation Momentumhttp://louisvilleky.gov/
The Louisville metro area has earned a Top 10 ranking for economic development and job creation from a leading national publication thanks to a slate of business investments and company expansions and locations in 2014.
Louisville placed ninth in Site Selection Magazine’s ranking of top tier metro areas with population over one million – that was up seven spots from the year before, the largest jump by any metro area in the top ten.
“This ranking is further evidence that we have a solid game plan for job creation and it’s producing strong results,” Mayor Greg Fischer said. “We still have much work to do, especially in the area of wage growth, but clearly businesses of all kinds are recognizing our strategic advantages and strong quality of life.”
In 2014, Louisville secured 31 business development projects, which signified more than 5,000 new jobs and $1 billion in investment.
The strong local growth was part of a record year for the state as Site Selection also awarded Kentucky its Governor’s Cup as the top state for new and expanded industry activity.
Fischer noted that many of the business investments announced last year were in healthcare. Louisville is the world leader in lifelong wellness and aging care, with more than 18,000 professionals producing over $48 billion in revenue. The city also is home to the nation’s largest collection of headquarters in nursing home, rehabilitation, assisted living and home health administration.
Significant projects announced in Louisville last year included:
Kindred, plans to create 500 new full-time jobs and construct a new operations center in Theatre Square;
Teleperformance, plans to invest $13 million and create 750 new jobs;
Computershare, plans a new facility and 250 new jobs;
Confluent Health, moving its national headquarters to Louisville, creating 25 new jobs;
Aperture Credentialing, additional investment and 30 new jobs;
Edumedics LLC, expanding its existing corporate headquarters, creating 17 new jobs.
Last year, Kentucky announced more than 350 new location and expansion projects, which are projected to create nearly 15,000 jobs and more than $3.7 billion in new investment. That is the most business investment in Kentucky since the state started recording investment data nearly 30 years ago.
The record business success led Site Selection to award the Commonwealth its Governor’s Cup, which it has presented since 1978 to the state with the most business activity.
“Winning the prestigious Governor’s Cup is a true honor,” said Gov. Steve Beshear. “Kentucky works extremely hard to build and maintain relationships with our companies, and we go the extra mile to support their plans for growth. The Governor’s Cup speaks to the dedication of everyone in this state who’s working to build Kentucky’s economy, grow jobs and create success for our industries, our communities and all Kentuckians.”
The ranking by Site Selection, an Atlanta-based publication, is based on a state’s total number of qualified projects as tracked by Conway Data Inc.’s New Plant database. Qualified projects include those that meet at least one of three criteria:
Involve a capital investment of at least $1 million,
Create 50 or more jobs, or
Add at least 20,000 square feet of new floor space.
“Not only did Kentucky win the Governor’s Cup for the most new projects per capita, but it also placed sixth in the ranking of states with the most total qualifying projects,” said Mark Arend, Site Selection’s editor in chief. “This demonstrates to our readership that the Commonwealth is competing quite effectively with states of all sizes for capital investment.”
The article and rankings can be viewed in their entirety at www.siteselection.com.
Tuesday, March 3, 2015 - 10:47City, Economic Development, Louisville Forward, Mayor Greg FischerVolunteer for the Brightside/Passport Health Plan Spring Community-Wide Cleanuphttp://louisvilleky.gov/
The Brightside/Passport Health Plan Community-Wide Cleanup returns Saturday, April 18th from 8:00am - 12:00pm. Register your team today!
Monday, March 2, 2015 - 16:05Brightside, Develop Louisville, Louisville ForwardVolunteer for the Brightside/Passport Health Plan Spring Community-Wide Cleanuphttp://louisvilleky.gov/
The Brightside/Passport Health Plan Community-Wide Cleanup returns Saturday, April 18th from 8:00am - 12:00pm. Register your team today!
Monday, March 2, 2015 - 16:05Brightside, Develop Louisville, Louisville ForwardVolunteer for the Brightside/Passport Health Plan Spring Community-Wide Cleanuphttp://louisvilleky.gov/
The Brightside/Passport Health Plan Community-Wide Cleanup returns Saturday, April 18th from 8:00am - 12:00pm. Register your team today!
Monday, March 2, 2015 - 16:05Brightside, Develop Louisville, Louisville ForwardRegistration is Open for the Brightside / Passport Health Plan Spring Community-Wide Cleanuphttp://louisvilleky.gov/Register%20your%20team%20for%20the%20Brightside/Passport%20Health%20Plan%20Spring%20Community-Wide%20Cleanup
The Brightside/Passport Health Plan Spring Community-Wide Cleanup returns Saturday, April 18th from 8:00am-12:00pm, helping launch the Mayor&#039;s Give A Day week of service. We are looking forward to seeing a great group of volunteers helping to keep Louisville Clean, Green, and Sustainable!Monday, March 2, 2015 - 16:13Brightside, Develop LouisvilleRegister your team for the Brightside/Passport Health Plan Spring Community-Wide CleanupRegistration is Open for the Brightside / Passport Health Plan Spring Community-Wide Cleanuphttp://louisvilleky.gov/Register%20your%20team%20for%20the%20Brightside/Passport%20Health%20Plan%20Spring%20Community-Wide%20Cleanup
The Brightside/Passport Health Plan Spring Community-Wide Cleanup returns Saturday, April 18th from 8:00am-12:00pm, helping launch the Mayor&#039;s Give A Day week of service. We are looking forward to seeing a great group of volunteers helping to keep Louisville Clean, Green, and Sustainable!Monday, March 2, 2015 - 16:13Brightside, Develop LouisvilleRegister your team for the Brightside/Passport Health Plan Spring Community-Wide CleanupBusiness Case Studies http://louisvilleky.gov/
Taco Punk
Taco Punk, located on East Market Street, has implemented one of the most aggressive recycling and composting programs of any business in Louisville. The restaurant’s clear drinking cups, silverware, and napkins are completely compostable, meaning that all discarded customer waste is either composted or recycled. Taco Punk diverts over a ton of compostable material and nearly 1,000 pounds of recyclables every month! Landfill-bound waste is easily managed by a single, small dumpster that is only serviced twice per month. Despite the higher cost of buying compostable products, Taco Punk has developed a loyal following of environmentally-conscious customers and drastically reduced the amount of material ending up in our landfill.
Heine Brothers’ Coffee
Heine Brothers’ Coffee realized early on the environmental benefits of launching a business recycling program and has taken full advantage of Louisville Metro’s curbside recycling program offered within the Urban Services District. In 2012 alone, the company’s 13 area locations recycled nearly 8,000 pounds of newspaper and office paper, 34,000 plastic milk jugs, and all of their cardboard boxes. In addition, Heine Brothers’ Coffee composted approximately 54,000 pounds of used coffee grounds and tea leaves!While some additional cost was incurred when implementing its recycling and composting programs, the company has reduced its garbage hauling cost and built a loyal following of customers by proving itself as a responsible local business.
Highland Cleaners
Through an aggressive recycling initiative, Highland Cleaners on Bardstown Road has replaced its daily dumpster pick-up service with a twice-a-week, two dumpster system (one for landfill-bound waste and one for recyclables). The switch has reduced costs by about $110 per month and diverted more than 50% of their waste from the landfill! Highland Cleaners has realized additional savings and waste reduction by recycling its used steel hangers, constructing a LEED-certified building, and installing energy-efficient light bulbs and programmable thermostats.Highland Cleaners is working closely with its suppliers to ensure all of their packaging is recyclable. They continue to push the bar for sustainability by constantly seeking innovative ways to adopt environmentally-friendly business practices.KentuckyOne Health
Every day, the average hospital generates 26 pounds of waste per bed. With this in mind, KentuckyOne Health has taken a leadership role in environmental stewardship with an ambitious recycling initiative. Sts. Mary &amp; Elizabeth Hospital is the pilot site, serving as a model for future roll-outs to other KentuckyOne facilities in Louisville.
This recycling initiative includes three parts: composting, single-stream recycling, and specialty-waste recycling. Composting has already begun at Sts. Mary &amp; Elizabeth, with 3,126 pounds of food waste diverted from the landfill in just the first three weeks of the program.
Single-stream and specialty-waste recycling began in Summer 2013. Specialty waste recycling is especially exciting because it will handle items that have never been recycled before, such as disposable surgical drapes and IV bags.
Preliminary estimates suggest that nearly $500,000 in savings could be realized if KentuckyOne Health’s Louisville facilities divert 35% of landfill waste. This research indicates that not only is recycling good for the environment, it can generate enormous cost savings! December 2013 Update: Read an article highlighting the ongoing success of KentuckyOne Health's program.Crowne Plaza Hotel
Since July 2012, Crowne Plaza Hotel has taken aggressive steps to reduce its landfill-bound waste. Before implementing their recycling program, Crowne Plaza’s two compacting dumpsters were hauled away to the landfill. Now, food scraps from the kitchen are thrown into brightly colored carts and hauled to a regional composting facility, diverting approximately 8-10 tons of food waste away from the landfill each month. With the removal of food and other organic materials, the remainder of waste is hauled to a recycling processing facility, greatly reducing the amount of material ending up in the landfill. Through a reduction in landfill tipping fees and fewer hauling charges, Crowne Plaza’s recycling and composting programs have led to average monthly savings of $900 per month! At the start of the program, an extensive educational campaign helped teach employees about the importance of separating food waste. When new or temporary employees are hired, their orientation guide explains Crowne Plaza’s recycling and composting policies and procedures. Through basic employee training and small shifts in procedure, what was first viewed as a major challenge has now become part of everyday operations at Crowne Plaza, resulting in both cost-savings and reduced landfill waste.American Printing House for the Blind
The American Printing House (APH) for the Blind is using a combination of single-stream and source separated collection methods in its offices and production areas to earn rebates from recyclable material and minimize landfill-bound garbage. Since the launch of these programs, recycling rebates have exceeded the cost of landfilling the garbage that APH generates! In a 10 month period starting in October 2012, APH recycled over 118 tons of paper, cardboard, plastics, metals, electronics, and Braille plates though their source separated program. Additional items that do not fit within traditional recycling programs are donated to non-profit groups for repurpose and reuse. For example, a recent remodeling project resulted in nearly 8,000 pounds of used cinder blocks that were donated to the Habitat Restore. APH also takes advantage of free programs to recycle printing supplies from the many printers and copiers used to produce their products. Finally, all employees are encouraged to utilize APH’s recycling programs. For instance, many employees who do not have curbside recycling service will bring recyclable material from their homes.
Monday, March 2, 2015 - 14:29Public WorksBusiness Recycling Homehttp://louisvilleky.gov/
Recycling for Businesses
A message from Mayor Greg Fischer:My administration has a goal to make Louisville a nationwide leader in recycling and sustainability practices. We have set targets to increase the amount of material diverted from our landfill by 25% over the next three years and achieve a 90% diversion rate within 30 years — and we need your help to get there! This webpage is intended for business owners and property managers and provides resources and tools for launching a recycling program. Here, you will find a list of licensed recycling companies, a waste audit template, and a “launch pack” that was used to initiate Louisville Metro Government’s own desk-side recycling program! If you are seeking more information or have additional questions, let us know how we can help! We can provide you with all the resources you need to initiate a business recycling program, and will work with you to analyze your waste stream and identify recycling options that may lead to cost savings for your business. If you have questions, call MetroCall, at 311 or (502) 574-5000, to get an advisor assigned to your business. Keeping our environment healthy and reducing landfill waste is serious business. Please do your part in helping Louisville become a greener and more sustainable city. Together, we can make a difference – for our community, our planet, and our future!
Mayor Greg Fischer
Louisville Metro is serious about reducing, reusing, and recycling. Not only is it better for our environment and community, it can be better for your business too. Even small solutions can draw attention to the value of conserving resources and help save you money. Here are a few options:
Implement policies that promote the reduction of waste: utilize double-sided printing, purchase reusable or refillable products, make training manuals available electronically
Set up a program to donate unwanted equipment, furniture, and supplies
Reduce unnecessary packaging and work with customers to implement a packaging return program
Reuse transport containers and boxes
Recycle. In most businesses, well over 50% of the stuff that is thrown away is recyclable
For more solutions, check out the local case studies to see what some local Louisville businesses are doing to help the environment and their bottom line.Louisville Metro Government is leading by example and we encourage other businesses to do the same. In September 2012, all Metro-managed buildings implemented a recycling program that has increased the amount of recyclables collected by over 50%. As a result, Louisville Metro has reduced its trash hauling bill by sending much less material to the landfill. You can do the same!
Check out the following links to see what other steps you can take to make your business more sustainable!
Recycling FAQs - More information about the basics of recycling.
Waste Audit Form -The first step in learning how your business can reduce waste.
Desk-side Recycling Launch Pack -Everything you need to start up your own Desk-side Recycling Program.Local Case Studies -Read how other area businesses are going green and reducing waste.
Tuesday, March 3, 2015 - 12:36Public WorksCouncilman Hollander calls for renewed effort for a permanent funding source for the Affordable Housing Trust Fundhttp://louisvilleky.gov/
Louisville – In an op-ed published online today in The Courier-Journal, Councilman Bill Hollander called for a renewed effort to fully fund the Louisville Affordable Housing Trust Fund (LAHTF).
Find Funding for Affordable Housing
Kenneth Winfield wanted to get off the streets and into an apartment. Despite the best efforts of the St. John Center for Homeless Men to obtain a housing voucher for him, Mr. Winfield had not found housing when he died outside in the bitter cold in Louisville on Thursday night.
Mr. Winfield was not alone in his wait. The Metropolitan Housing Coalition reports there are approximately 3,320 applicants on Louisville Metro Housing Authority’s waiting list for public housing units and 17,746 more waiting for a housing voucher. Low-income people with disabilities often face waits of several years. Homelessness also strikes many others in our community: Jefferson County Public Schools reports 6,846 homeless students, while the Coalition for the Homeless has documented 360 known homeless veterans in our city.
These numbers represent just the most dire cases. Throughout Louisville Metro, many people not counted as homeless cannot afford decent housing. In walking last year in my district in east Louisville, which in many ways is thriving, I saw seniors and families living in deplorable conditions. And housing issues affect those of us who are safe and warm: In nearly every neighborhood, residents told me their biggest concerns were nearby vacant and abandoned houses.
Louisville’s plan to solve these problems goes back to 2006, when a community task force, including representatives of area banks, the Building Industry Association, Realtors and non-profit leaders, recommended the creation of an affordable housing trust fund. Such funds are used throughout the country because of their flexibility in providing grants and loans to developers and non-profit organizations for the most pressing housing-related activities.
The key to successful housing trust funds is an ongoing dedicated source of public funding, so that the fund and developers can make future plans for addressing ongoing community needs. The 2006 plan determined that a trust fund for Louisville should have public funding of $10 million annually, an investment that would have a strong economic impact by creating jobs, increasing wages and business income, and generating more tax revenue.
In 2008, Republicans and Democrats on the Metro Council voted 25-1 to create the Louisville Affordable Housing Trust Fund (LAHTF), to fund organizations that address the needs of low and moderate-income families and individuals for housing and housing-related services. The ordinance specifically mentions helping seniors on fixed incomes, persons with disabilities and single-parent families.
The council’s ordinance committed the “the Mayor and Metro Council [to] endeavor to establish revenue sources and appropriate funds for deposit in the Fund from time to time,” directed the LAHTF board to “work to create a dedicated, renewable source of public revenue” and emphasized the importance of annually investing $10 million in affordable housing projects.
The board, which includes representatives of business, non-profits, government and individual citizens — appointed by the mayor and approved by the Metro Council — has worked diligently for years to research and recommend a larger, permanent source of public funding, but no dedicated funding source has yet been created.
So far, periodic allocations have allowed Louisville’s trust fund to assist with senior housing and other developments and it is currently focusing on the rehabilitation of vacant and abandoned properties. In January, it announced an allocation of $963,500 to make 29 homes available to first-time homeowners, with half of the money used to convert vacant and abandoned properties into single-family homes.
Unfortunately, that will make just a tiny dent in Louisville’s needs. With no dedicated funding source, the total funds available to LAHTF haven’t reached even close to $10 million over the past 7 years, much less the $10 million annually that would begin to solve our housing problems. With that in mind, the seniors, people with disabilities, families, veterans and individuals who are waiting for housing deserve a full discussion of how to fully fund the trust fund each year.
When bitterly cold weather strikes and we read of a death on our streets, our compassionate instinct is to contribute items and funds to make those in need a little warmer. We should do that.
But we should also fulfill the mission our community agreed upon years ago and fund the LAHTF. What many of our neighbors really need is a safe, decent and affordable place to live.
Bill Hollander represents District 9 on the Louisville Metro Council.
Monday, March 2, 2015 - 13:32Metro Council, Metro Council District 9Councilman Hollander calls for renewed effort for a permanent funding source for the Affordable Housing Trust Fundhttp://louisvilleky.gov/
Louisville – In an op-ed published online today in The Courier-Journal, Councilman Bill Hollander called for a renewed effort to fully fund the Louisville Affordable Housing Trust Fund (LAHTF).
Find Funding for Affordable Housing
Kenneth Winfield wanted to get off the streets and into an apartment. Despite the best efforts of the St. John Center for Homeless Men to obtain a housing voucher for him, Mr. Winfield had not found housing when he died outside in the bitter cold in Louisville on Thursday night.
Mr. Winfield was not alone in his wait. The Metropolitan Housing Coalition reports there are approximately 3,320 applicants on Louisville Metro Housing Authority’s waiting list for public housing units and 17,746 more waiting for a housing voucher. Low-income people with disabilities often face waits of several years. Homelessness also strikes many others in our community: Jefferson County Public Schools reports 6,846 homeless students, while the Coalition for the Homeless has documented 360 known homeless veterans in our city.
These numbers represent just the most dire cases. Throughout Louisville Metro, many people not counted as homeless cannot afford decent housing. In walking last year in my district in east Louisville, which in many ways is thriving, I saw seniors and families living in deplorable conditions. And housing issues affect those of us who are safe and warm: In nearly every neighborhood, residents told me their biggest concerns were nearby vacant and abandoned houses.
Louisville’s plan to solve these problems goes back to 2006, when a community task force, including representatives of area banks, the Building Industry Association, Realtors and non-profit leaders, recommended the creation of an affordable housing trust fund. Such funds are used throughout the country because of their flexibility in providing grants and loans to developers and non-profit organizations for the most pressing housing-related activities.
The key to successful housing trust funds is an ongoing dedicated source of public funding, so that the fund and developers can make future plans for addressing ongoing community needs. The 2006 plan determined that a trust fund for Louisville should have public funding of $10 million annually, an investment that would have a strong economic impact by creating jobs, increasing wages and business income, and generating more tax revenue.
In 2008, Republicans and Democrats on the Metro Council voted 25-1 to create the Louisville Affordable Housing Trust Fund (LAHTF), to fund organizations that address the needs of low and moderate-income families and individuals for housing and housing-related services. The ordinance specifically mentions helping seniors on fixed incomes, persons with disabilities and single-parent families.
The council’s ordinance committed the “the Mayor and Metro Council [to] endeavor to establish revenue sources and appropriate funds for deposit in the Fund from time to time,” directed the LAHTF board to “work to create a dedicated, renewable source of public revenue” and emphasized the importance of annually investing $10 million in affordable housing projects.
The board, which includes representatives of business, non-profits, government and individual citizens — appointed by the mayor and approved by the Metro Council — has worked diligently for years to research and recommend a larger, permanent source of public funding, but no dedicated funding source has yet been created.
So far, periodic allocations have allowed Louisville’s trust fund to assist with senior housing and other developments and it is currently focusing on the rehabilitation of vacant and abandoned properties. In January, it announced an allocation of $963,500 to make 29 homes available to first-time homeowners, with half of the money used to convert vacant and abandoned properties into single-family homes.
Unfortunately, that will make just a tiny dent in Louisville’s needs. With no dedicated funding source, the total funds available to LAHTF haven’t reached even close to $10 million over the past 7 years, much less the $10 million annually that would begin to solve our housing problems. With that in mind, the seniors, people with disabilities, families, veterans and individuals who are waiting for housing deserve a full discussion of how to fully fund the trust fund each year.
When bitterly cold weather strikes and we read of a death on our streets, our compassionate instinct is to contribute items and funds to make those in need a little warmer. We should do that.
But we should also fulfill the mission our community agreed upon years ago and fund the LAHTF. What many of our neighbors really need is a safe, decent and affordable place to live.
Bill Hollander represents District 9 on the Louisville Metro Council.
Monday, March 2, 2015 - 13:32Metro Council, Metro Council District 9LMAS 2nd Annual Kitten Showerhttp://louisvilleky.gov/Kitten%20Shower%20details
Come to our 2nd Annual Kitten Shower! We&#039;ll be collecting supplies for the litters of kittens and puppies that will come in the Spring, and also discussing our foster program! Current and potential fosters are welcome. RSVP by March 4th. Monday, March 2, 2015 - 11:13Animal ServicesKitten Shower detailsNeighborhood Places Offer Free Tax Preparation, Extreme Couponing and Morehttp://louisvilleky.gov/
Neighborhood Place locations in Louisville will offer free tax preparation assistance in March as well as events for the entire family including an Extreme Couponing series, a credit-building and budgeting workshop and much more. To learn more about these services, including reservation requirements and contact infoormation, please refer to the phone numbers listed by each event.
Free Tax Preparation available at two Neighborhood Place locations, provided by VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) volunteers:
March 2, 9 and 16, Urban Government Center, 810 Barret Ave., 3rd Floor, 9 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. Call 574-5191 to schedule an appointment and click here for eligibility. info. Sponsored in part by the Financial Empowerment/economic Development division of Louisville Metro Community Services.
March 13, Ujima Neighborhood Place, 3610 Bohne Ave., 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Call 485-6145 for more information.
March 2, Public Hearing for 2015-2019 Consolidated Plan and 2015 Action Plan at NorthWest Neighborhood Place, 6 p.m.
Located at 4018 W. Market St. Call 574-8298 for more information. Develop Louisville, part of Louisville Metro Government, is seeking public input to help assign priorities for the city’s HUD entitlement funding for over the next five years.
Extreme Couponing 101 at two Neighborhood Place locations:
Local couponing guru, Kim Mapp, will teach tips and money-saving ideas to help participants build extra financial wealth while grocery shopping.
March 3, 10, 24, and 31 at Bridges of Hope Neighborhood Place, 1 – 2 p.m. Call 634-6057 to register and for more information.
March 3, 10, 24, and 31 at Ujima Neighborhood Place, 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. Call 485-6145 to register and for more information.
Every Tuesday, Meditation at Ujima Neighborhood Place, 12:30 - 2:30 p.m.
Located at 3610 Bohne Ave. Call 485-6145 for more information. Join Emma for NAAM Therapies a joyful meditative experience using sound and breathing to uplift and elevate the body at its deepest cellular level. Be prepared to be inspired educated, rejuvenated and lifted into the universal vibrations of love, peace and light.
March 3, The Savvy Cost Effective Money Management Series at Ujima Neighborhood Place, 6 -7 p.m.
Located at 3610 Bohne Ave. Call 485-6145 for registration. University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension will facilitate "A Plan for Managing Your Money" financial education class.
March 3 and 17, Legal Aid Society at South Central Neighborhood Place, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Located at 4255 Hazelwood Ave. Call 485-7130 for more information. A Legal Aid staff member will be on hand to answer questions, talk about the types of cases the agency handles and provide referrals.
March 4 and March 11, Financial Empowerment Classes at NorthWest Neighborhood Place, 5:30 – 6:30 p.m.
Located at 4018 W. Market St. Call 485-7232 to register and for more information. Fifth Third Bank and NorthWest Neighborhood Place are proud to offer this series with topics including Banking 101, Saving and Developing a Spending Plan, Building and Maintaining Good Credit , Protecting Against Identity Theft and much more.
March 4, Rebuilding Your Credit at Farnsley Middle School, 5:30 – 6:30 p.m.
Located at 3400 Lees Lane. Call 574-5156 to register. Get financially fit in 2015 by learning ways to manage and build credit. Sponsored in part by Bank On Louisville, Cane Run Neighborhood Place, Farnsley Community School and Kentucky Telco Federal Credit Union.
March 6, Lead Safe Louisville at Cane Run Neighborhood Place, 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Located at 3410 Lees Lane in the lobby. Call 485-6810 for more information. A Lead Safe Louisville representative will be on site to share services that can help support your families’ health and well-being.
March 10, The Mayor’s SummerWorks Teen Workshop at Ujima Neighborhood Place, 4 – 6 p.m.
Located at 3610 Bohne Ave. Call 485-6145 for more information Youth ages 16-21 can receive free training and an inside connection to companies which they wish to apply.
March 11 and March 25, Shawnee Library Outreach at Ujima Neighborhood Place, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Located at 3610 Bohne Ave. Call 485-6145 for more information. Children and adults will have an opportunity to check out books, apply for library cards and learn more about programs sponsored by Louisville Free Public Library. This month’s topic are books in celebration of Women’s History Month.
March 12, Iroquois Library Outreach at South Central Neighborhood Place, 12 - 2 p.m.
Located at 4255 Hazelwood Ave. Call 485-7135 for more information. Representatives from Louisville Free Public Library will be in the lobby to provide information about various programs and services available in the community. Children and adults will also have an opportunity to apply for library cards and check out books.
March 12, 19, and 26, Employment Preparation Workshops at Ujima Neighborhood Place, 10:30 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Located at 3610 Bohne Ave. Call 485-6145 for more information. Jewish Family and Career Services offers career assessment, resume-writing, and job search training assistance to help the unemployed and underemployed in our community.
March 17, Healthy Journey for Two at South Jefferson Neighborhood Place, 2 – 4 p.m.
Located at 1000 Neighborhood Place, Fairdale, KY (off National Turnpike). Call 439-4591 to register or for more information. The program provides educational information on health issues for expectant mothers. All pregnant participants will receive a baby tote bag filled with baby items and gas gift card. Sponsored by Seven Counties Services.
March 18, Basic Budgeting Class at Farnsley Middle School, 5:30 - 6:30 p.m.
Located at 3400 Lees Lane. Call 574-5156 to register. Learn how to save money for those special occasions by learning different techniques on how to budget. Sponsored in part by Bank On Louisville, Cane Run Neighborhood Place, Farnsley Middle School and Fifth Third Bank.
March 19, Kitchen Table Conversations at NorthWest Neighborhood Place, 11 a.m. – noon
Located at 4018 W. Market St. For additional information, please call 458-6429. Join an engaging conversation at this monthly Grandparents as Parents support group facilitated by Helen Denies of Spalding University. Light refreshments will be served.
March 25, Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Support Group at Cane Run Neighborhood Place, 1 – 2 p.m.
Located at 3410 Lees Ln. Call 485-6811 for more information. This resource/support group will meet on the fourth Wednesday of each month to focus on the unique issues that caregivers may have raising younger children. Aunts/uncles or anyone raising their grandchildren are welcome to attend (adults only please).
March 26, Adult and Child Literacy Fair at Farnsley Middle School, 6 - 8 p.m.
Located at 3400 Lees Lane. Call 485-6810 for more information. Come play educational games with your kids and receive free books as prizes. Books for all ages and interest levels will be available. Sponsored in part by Cane Run Neighborhood Place.
About Neighborhood Place
Louisville’s Neighborhood Place -- a partnership of Louisville Metro Government (including Community Services and Public Health and Wellness), Jefferson County Public Schools, Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services and Seven Counties -- provide one-stop centers which bring together health care, education, employment and social services at eight locations across the community. To find a Neighborhood Place near you, please call Metro Call at 311.
###
Monday, March 2, 2015 - 11:13Community ServicesMarch Adoption Special http://louisvilleky.gov/Event%20Details
Learn about our adoption special going on throughout the month of March. Made possible by Best Friends Animal Society. Saturday, February 28, 2015 - 15:34Animal ServicesEvent DetailsRAKEEM O&#039;DELL BENTLEYhttp://louisvilleky.gov/
WANTED: Robbery 1st Degree, Kidnapping (Adult), Burglary 1st Degree
*** Bond To Be Set Upon Arrest***
Race/Sex:
B/M
Height:
6'0"
Age:
23
Weight:
200
Hair:
Black
Eyes:
Brown
E-1938058, E-1993385, E-1940347
Saturday, February 28, 2015 - 09:54PoliceFischer Consolidates City&#039;s Emergency Services, Creating More Seamless Coordinated Responsehttp://louisvilleky.gov/
Mayor Greg Fischer today consolidated the city’s three emergency services departments into a single agency to create a more efficient, seamless and coordinated response for citizens -- from the time a 911 call comes into MetroSafe until a patient is delivered to an emergency room.
Debbie Fox, current director of the Emergency Management Agency, will assume the new title Director of Emergency Services. In that role, three departments will report to her— Emergency Medical Service (the city’s medical/ambulance response); Emergency Management Agency (the community emergency response team that comprises 95 agencies); and MetroSafe, the 911 and 311 call centers.
The changes are being achieved within existing budgets so there are no additional expenses.
“These three agencies already work closely together, but unified under the strong leadership of Debbie Fox, our citizens will experience an even better collaborative response when it comes to emergencies,” Fischer said.
Fox began her career in 1982 with the Jefferson County Police Department as a radio dispatcher to handle 911 emergency calls and dispatch police officers. Initially promoted in October 1987 to a communications supervisor, she eventually became the Technical Services Director for both JCPD and later the newly merged LMPD.
Since joining EMA/MetroSafe as their first employee in 2005, she worked with a team to create a consolidated dispatch and communications center that now provides services to 95 agencies and 6,500 responders, handling 1.5 million calls each year. In 2013, she was named as our EMA Director. She has a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice Administration from Eastern Kentucky University and attended graduate school, completing 15 hours in Criminal Justice Administration from EKU.
Mayor Fischer today also named Dr. Raymond Orthober as the new medical director for EMS. He will focus on the medical side of EMS while Fox will be responsible for providing leadership and direction for the day-to-day operations.
Orthober is Assistant Clinical Professor of the Department of Emergency Medicine at the University of Louisville School of Medicine. He is also a part-time assistant professor at the University of Kentucky School of Medicine. He earned a bachelor’s degree from UL, a medical degree from Ross University in Portsmouth, Dominica, and has been a fellow with the American College of Emergency Physicians since 2009.
His appointment to Metro Government begins today, replacing Dr. Neal Richmond, who took a new medical position in Ft. Worth, Texas.
“Mayor Fischer has designed an efficient system for emergency services throughout greater Louisville. I am very excited that the mayor has tapped into the expertise we have at the UofL School of Medicine,” said Dr. Toni Ganzel, of the University of Louisville. “Dr. Orthober is a highly respected clinician, educator and leader. His experience in our Level 1 Trauma Center will be invaluable in helping to implement this coordinated initiative.”
Friday, February 27, 2015 - 15:16City, EMA/MetroSafe, Mayor Greg Fischer, MetroCall 311Fischer Consolidates City&#039;s Emergency Services, Creating More Seamless Coordinated Responsehttp://louisvilleky.gov/
Mayor Greg Fischer today consolidated the city’s three emergency services departments into a single agency to create a more efficient, seamless and coordinated response for citizens -- from the time a 911 call comes into MetroSafe until a patient is delivered to an emergency room.
Debbie Fox, current director of the Emergency Management Agency, will assume the new title Director of Emergency Services. In that role, three departments will report to her— Emergency Medical Service (the city’s medical/ambulance response); Emergency Management Agency (the community emergency response team that comprises 95 agencies); and MetroSafe, the 911 and 311 call centers.
The changes are being achieved within existing budgets so there are no additional expenses.
“These three agencies already work closely together, but unified under the strong leadership of Debbie Fox, our citizens will experience an even better collaborative response when it comes to emergencies,” Fischer said.
Fox began her career in 1982 with the Jefferson County Police Department as a radio dispatcher to handle 911 emergency calls and dispatch police officers. Initially promoted in October 1987 to a communications supervisor, she eventually became the Technical Services Director for both JCPD and later the newly merged LMPD.
Since joining EMA/MetroSafe as their first employee in 2005, she worked with a team to create a consolidated dispatch and communications center that now provides services to 95 agencies and 6,500 responders, handling 1.5 million calls each year. In 2013, she was named as our EMA Director. She has a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice Administration from Eastern Kentucky University and attended graduate school, completing 15 hours in Criminal Justice Administration from EKU.
Mayor Fischer today also named Dr. Raymond Orthober as the new medical director for EMS. He will focus on the medical side of EMS while Fox will be responsible for providing leadership and direction for the day-to-day operations.
Orthober is Assistant Clinical Professor of the Department of Emergency Medicine at the University of Louisville School of Medicine. He is also a part-time assistant professor at the University of Kentucky School of Medicine. He earned a bachelor’s degree from UL, a medical degree from Ross University in Portsmouth, Dominica, and has been a fellow with the American College of Emergency Physicians since 2009.
His appointment to Metro Government begins today, replacing Dr. Neal Richmond, who took a new medical position in Ft. Worth, Texas.
“Mayor Fischer has designed an efficient system for emergency services throughout greater Louisville. I am very excited that the mayor has tapped into the expertise we have at the UofL School of Medicine,” said Dr. Toni Ganzel, of the University of Louisville. “Dr. Orthober is a highly respected clinician, educator and leader. His experience in our Level 1 Trauma Center will be invaluable in helping to implement this coordinated initiative.”
Friday, February 27, 2015 - 15:16City, EMA/MetroSafe, Mayor Greg Fischer, MetroCall 311Fischer Consolidates City&#039;s Emergency Services, Creating More Seamless Coordinated Responsehttp://louisvilleky.gov/
Mayor Greg Fischer today consolidated the city’s three emergency services departments into a single agency to create a more efficient, seamless and coordinated response for citizens -- from the time a 911 call comes into MetroSafe until a patient is delivered to an emergency room.
Debbie Fox, current director of the Emergency Management Agency, will assume the new title Director of Emergency Services. In that role, three departments will report to her— Emergency Medical Service (the city’s medical/ambulance response); Emergency Management Agency (the community emergency response team that comprises 95 agencies); and MetroSafe, the 911 and 311 call centers.
The changes are being achieved within existing budgets so there are no additional expenses.
“These three agencies already work closely together, but unified under the strong leadership of Debbie Fox, our citizens will experience an even better collaborative response when it comes to emergencies,” Fischer said.
Fox began her career in 1982 with the Jefferson County Police Department as a radio dispatcher to handle 911 emergency calls and dispatch police officers. Initially promoted in October 1987 to a communications supervisor, she eventually became the Technical Services Director for both JCPD and later the newly merged LMPD.
Since joining EMA/MetroSafe as their first employee in 2005, she worked with a team to create a consolidated dispatch and communications center that now provides services to 95 agencies and 6,500 responders, handling 1.5 million calls each year. In 2013, she was named as our EMA Director. She has a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice Administration from Eastern Kentucky University and attended graduate school, completing 15 hours in Criminal Justice Administration from EKU.
Mayor Fischer today also named Dr. Raymond Orthober as the new medical director for EMS. He will focus on the medical side of EMS while Fox will be responsible for providing leadership and direction for the day-to-day operations.
Orthober is Assistant Clinical Professor of the Department of Emergency Medicine at the University of Louisville School of Medicine. He is also a part-time assistant professor at the University of Kentucky School of Medicine. He earned a bachelor’s degree from UL, a medical degree from Ross University in Portsmouth, Dominica, and has been a fellow with the American College of Emergency Physicians since 2009.
His appointment to Metro Government begins today, replacing Dr. Neal Richmond, who took a new medical position in Ft. Worth, Texas.
“Mayor Fischer has designed an efficient system for emergency services throughout greater Louisville. I am very excited that the mayor has tapped into the expertise we have at the UofL School of Medicine,” said Dr. Toni Ganzel, of the University of Louisville. “Dr. Orthober is a highly respected clinician, educator and leader. His experience in our Level 1 Trauma Center will be invaluable in helping to implement this coordinated initiative.”
Friday, February 27, 2015 - 15:16City, EMA/MetroSafe, Mayor Greg Fischer, MetroCall 311Fischer Consolidates City&#039;s Emergency Services, Creating More Seamless Coordinated Responsehttp://louisvilleky.gov/
Mayor Greg Fischer today consolidated the city’s three emergency services departments into a single agency to create a more efficient, seamless and coordinated response for citizens -- from the time a 911 call comes into MetroSafe until a patient is delivered to an emergency room.
Debbie Fox, current director of the Emergency Management Agency, will assume the new title Director of Emergency Services. In that role, three departments will report to her— Emergency Medical Service (the city’s medical/ambulance response); Emergency Management Agency (the community emergency response team that comprises 95 agencies); and MetroSafe, the 911 and 311 call centers.
The changes are being achieved within existing budgets so there are no additional expenses.
“These three agencies already work closely together, but unified under the strong leadership of Debbie Fox, our citizens will experience an even better collaborative response when it comes to emergencies,” Fischer said.
Fox began her career in 1982 with the Jefferson County Police Department as a radio dispatcher to handle 911 emergency calls and dispatch police officers. Initially promoted in October 1987 to a communications supervisor, she eventually became the Technical Services Director for both JCPD and later the newly merged LMPD.
Since joining EMA/MetroSafe as their first employee in 2005, she worked with a team to create a consolidated dispatch and communications center that now provides services to 95 agencies and 6,500 responders, handling 1.5 million calls each year. In 2013, she was named as our EMA Director. She has a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice Administration from Eastern Kentucky University and attended graduate school, completing 15 hours in Criminal Justice Administration from EKU.
Mayor Fischer today also named Dr. Raymond Orthober as the new medical director for EMS. He will focus on the medical side of EMS while Fox will be responsible for providing leadership and direction for the day-to-day operations.
Orthober is Assistant Clinical Professor of the Department of Emergency Medicine at the University of Louisville School of Medicine. He is also a part-time assistant professor at the University of Kentucky School of Medicine. He earned a bachelor’s degree from UL, a medical degree from Ross University in Portsmouth, Dominica, and has been a fellow with the American College of Emergency Physicians since 2009.
His appointment to Metro Government begins today, replacing Dr. Neal Richmond, who took a new medical position in Ft. Worth, Texas.
“Mayor Fischer has designed an efficient system for emergency services throughout greater Louisville. I am very excited that the mayor has tapped into the expertise we have at the UofL School of Medicine,” said Dr. Toni Ganzel, of the University of Louisville. “Dr. Orthober is a highly respected clinician, educator and leader. His experience in our Level 1 Trauma Center will be invaluable in helping to implement this coordinated initiative.”
Friday, February 27, 2015 - 15:16City, EMA/MetroSafe, Mayor Greg Fischer, MetroCall 311Keep Your Pet Safe during Disasterhttp://louisvilleky.gov/
KEEP YOUR PET SAFE DURING DISASTER
Here is what the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, recommends...
Step 1: Get a Rescue Alert Sticker
This easy-to-use sticker will let people know that pets are inside your home. Make sure it is visible to rescue workers, and that it includes the types and number of pets in your household, the name of your veterinarian, and your veterinarian's phone number. If you must evacuate with your pets, and if time allows, write "EVACUATED" across the stickers.
Step 2: Arrange a Safe Haven
Arrange a safe haven for your pets in the event of evacuation. DO NOT LEAVE YOUR PETS BEHIND. Remember, if it isn't safe for you, it isn't safe for your pets. They may become trapped or escape and be exposed to numerous life-threatening hazards. Not all disaster shelters accept pets, so it is very important that you find the appropriate shelter ahead of time. Contact your veterinarian for a list of preferred boarding kennels and facilities. Ask your local animal shelter if they provide emergency shelter or foster care for pets. Identify hotels or motels outside of your immediate area that accept pets. Ask friends and relatives outside your immediate area if they would be willing to take in your pet.
Step 3: Emergency Supplies and Traveling Kits
Keep an Evac-Pack and supplies handy for your pets. Make sure that everyone in the family knows where it is. This kit should be clearly labeled and easy to carry. Items to consider keeping in or near your pack include:
Pet first-aid kit and guide book (ask your vet what to include, or visit the ASPCA Store to buy one online)
Three to seven days' worth of canned (pop-top) or dry food (be sure to rotate every two months)
Disposable litter trays (aluminum roasting pans are perfect)
Litter or paper toweling
Liquid dish soap and disinfectant
Disposable garbage bags for clean-up
Pet feeding dishes
Extra collar or harness as well as an extra leash
Photocopies of medical records and a waterproof container with a two-week supply of any medicine your pet requires (Remember, food and medications need to be rotated out of your emergency kit—otherwise they may go bad or become useless.)
Bottled water, at least seven days' worth for each person and pet (store in a cool, dry place and replace every two months)
A traveling bag, crate or sturdy carrier, ideally one for each pet
Flashlight
Blanket (for scooping up a fearful pet)
Recent photos of your pets (in case you are separated and need to make "Lost" posters)
Pillowcase or EvackSack, toys, scoopable litter for cats
Extra leash, toys and chew toys, a week's worth of cage liner for dogs
Step 4: Choose Designated Caregivers
This step will take considerable time and thought. When choosing a temporary caregiver, consider someone who lives close to your residence. He or she should be someone who is generally home during the day while you are at work or has easy access to your home. A set of keys should be given to this trusted individual. This may work well with neighbors who have pets of their own — you may even swap responsibilities, depending upon who has accessibility. When selecting this "foster parent," consider people who have met your pet and have successfully cared for animals in the past. Be sure to discuss your expectations at length with a permanent caregiver, so he or she understands the responsibility of caring for your pet.
Step 5: Evacuation Preparation
Plan for the worst-case scenario. If you think you may be gone for only a day, assume that you may not be allowed to return for several weeks. When recommendations for evacuation have been announced, follow the instructions of local and state officials. To minimize evacuation time, take these simple steps:
Store an emergency kit and leashes as close to an exit as possible.
Make sure all pets wear collars and tags with up-to-date identification. Your pet's ID tag should contain his name, telephone number, and any urgent medical needs. Be sure to write your pet's name, your name and contact information on your pet's carrier.
The ASPCA recommends micro chipping your pet as a more permanent form of identification. A microchip is implanted in the animal's shoulder area, and can be read by scanner at most animal shelters.
Always bring pets indoors at the first sign or warning of a storm or disaster. Pets can become disoriented and wander away from home during a crisis.
Consider your evacuation route and call ahead to make arrangements for boarding your pet outside of the danger zone at the first sign of disaster.
Step 6: Geographic and Climatic Considerations
Do you live in an area that is prone to certain natural catastrophes, such as tornadoes, earthquakes or floods? If so, you should plan accordingly. Determine well in advance which rooms offer safe havens. These rooms should be clear of hazards such as windows, flying debris, etc. Choose easy-to-clean areas such as utility rooms, bathrooms, and basements as safe zones. Access to a supply of fresh water is particularly important. In areas that may lose electricity, fill up bathtubs and sinks ahead of time to ensure that you have access to water during a power outage or other crises. In the event of flooding, go to the highest location in your home, or a room that has access to counters or high shelves where your animals can take shelter. If emergency officials recommend that you stay in your home, it's crucial that you keep your pets with you. Keep your Evac-Pack and supplies close at hand. Your pets may become stressed during the in-house confinement, so you may consider crating them for safety and comfort.
Special Considerations for Birds
Birds should be transported in a secure travel cage or carrier. In cold weather, make certain you have a blanket over your pet’s cage. This may also help reduce the stress of traveling. In warm weather, carry a spray bottle to periodically moisten your bird's feathers. Have recent photos available, and keep your bird’s leg bands on for identification. If the carrier does not have a perch, line it with paper towels that you can change frequently. Keep the carrier in as quiet an area as possible. It is particularly imperative that birds eat on a daily basis, so purchase a timed feeder. If you need to leave your bird unexpectedly, the feeder will ensure his daily feeding schedule. Items to keep on hand: Catch net, heavy towel, blanket or sheet to cover cage, cage liner.
Special Considerations for Reptiles
A snake may be transported in a pillowcase, but you should have permanent and secure housing for him when you reach a safe place. Take a sturdy bowl that is large for your pet to soak in. It’s also a good idea to bring along a heating pad or other warming device, such as a hot water bottle. Lizards can be transported like birds (see above).
Special Considerations for Small Animals
Small animals, such as hamsters, gerbils, mice and guinea pigs, should be transported in secure carriers with bedding materials, food and food bowls. Items to keep on hand: salt lick, extra water bottle, small hide box or tube, a week's worth of bedding.
Watch Video
Friday, February 27, 2015 - 14:57EMA/MetroSafeKappa Alpha Psi honored for their charitable work!http://louisvilleky.gov/news/councilwoman-woolridge-honors-kappa-alpha-psi-frate...
On Thursday, February 26th during the regular meeting of the Louisville Metro Council, Councilwoman Mary C. Woolridge (D-3) honored a very dedicated group of people who have made the holiday season a happier time for those less fortunate in the Metro Louisville areaFriday, February 27, 2015 - 12:54Metro Council District 3http://louisvilleky.gov/news/councilwoman-woolridge-honors-kappa-alpha-psi-frate...Councilwoman Woolridge honors Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity for their charitable work during the holiday seasonhttp://louisvilleky.gov/
Louisville – On Thursday, February 26th during the regular meeting of the Louisville Metro Council, Councilwoman Mary C. Woolridge (D-3) honored a very dedicated group of people who have made the holiday season a happier time for those less fortunate in the Metro Louisville area.
“Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc is hereby recognized by the Metro Council for their participation and continued commitment, loyalty, dedication, support, untiring and unselfish efforts put forth to those in need during the holiday season; the Louisville Metro Council admires the Louisville Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. for its efforts to purchase and deliver holiday meal baskets to needy families throughout Kentucky and Southern Indiana,” said Woolridge. “There are many families in our community that need help, especially during that time of year. Kappa Alpha Psi is a dedicated organization of caring individuals in our city and I am happy to recognize them.”
Kappa Alpha Psi began this annual initiative after deciding those in need should not go without food on Thanksgiving and Christmas. Joining the Fraternity in this effort were First Choice Food Market, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Kentuckiana, the Louisville Kappa Silhouettes and the Louisville Kappa League.
Councilwoman Woolridge has joined the fraternity and its partners in delivering the baskets for the last three years.
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Friday, February 27, 2015 - 12:42Metro Council District 3